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DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME

Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the U.S., the government has launched sweeping initiatives to beef up supply chain security. It can be truly daunting for a company, however, to even attempt to wade through all the regulations and proposed legislation that relate to carriers, shippers, trailers, containers, and cargo. Fortunately, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (www.cscmp.org) has come up with a shortlist of the essential rules you need to know about and comply with. Here, culled from the council’s list, are some key statutes and regulatory initiatives:

Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002

Trade Act of 2002

If you ship cargo by sea, you must report the contents of your shipments to U.S. Customs; undocumented cargo is subject to penalties. You must also provide advance electronic information about your imports and exports by sea and land. To learn more, visit www.doleta.gov/tradeact/2002act_index.cfm.

Cargo Theft Prevention Act

(H.R. 3563, bill pending in Congress) This bill aims to create a federal database of cargo thefts for law enforcement. Shippers and carriers would provide voluntary reporting. For more information, visit www.theorator.com/bills108/hr3563.html.

Free and Secure Trade (FAST)

The FAST program coordinates U.S., Canadian, and Mexican security initiatives for cargo shipments. Participants must qualify and all freight must originate from shippers with C-TPAT certification. For more information, visit www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/fast/menu-e.html.

Prior Notice of Imported Food Program

These FDA regulations require registration of food facilities and specify mandates for advance notice of food and feed imports. For more information, visit www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pn/cpgpn4.html.